Katherine

by Katherine
(Matthews, NC)

Question


My child was just diagnosed with autism, and my husband we think has OCPD (obsessive compulsive personality disorder). I think my child has a lot of OCPD characteristics. How do I help alleviate my child's anxiety when there is clearly an OCPD component to it (much like OCD)? He is 4 1/2. He freaks out at any change, transition, and does not do well in groups more than about 6 people. Often, it is all he can do to get thru the day, mostly because he cannot control his circumstances. His anxiety and need for control are more reinforcing than any reward I can throw at him.

Answer


Hi Katherine

These are difficult questions. I do not treat autism although I have some children who have Aspergers.

Where was your child evaluated for autism? Are you confident in that diagnosis? I would say its important to explore all options diagnostically and always crucial if you have doubts to get a second opinion.

The treatment for OCD, which is ERP ( Exposure and response prevention) is a very specific treatment that has incredible outcomes. However, I do not know what has been done to help kids who have overlap with these symptoms.

It may be worth it to contact the OC foundation and ask them about the research between this overlap.

I also dont work much with personality disorders, but, I know that OCPD is much different from OCD. We dont diagnosis kids with personality disorders.

If you have questions I would keep doing research.

Sorry I can't be of more help

Sincerely

Kristen McClure